Italian Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Parsley

Introduction

Grilled octopus is a classic Italian delicacy that combines tender, smoky flavors with bright, fresh notes of lemon and parsley. On the Arteflame grill, you get a perfect sear on the center grate while finishing the octopus to tender perfection on the flat cooktop. This recipe ensures juicy, flavorful seafood with a slight char that enhances the natural taste of the octopus.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds octopus, cleaned
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oiled napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Pre-cook the octopus

1. Place the octopus on the outer edges of the Arteflame cooktop, where the heat is gentler.
2. Let it cook slowly for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Once tender, remove from the grill and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the seasoning

1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Grill the octopus

1. Slice the tentacles for easier grilling.
2. Move the tentacles to the center grill grate to sear at 1,000F for about 2 minutes per side.
3. Move them to the flat cooktop area to finish cooking for another 5 minutes, basting occasionally with the butter mixture.

Step 5: Serve

1. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the octopus.
2. Drizzle with extra lemon juice to taste.
3. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Tips

• For extra tenderness, let the pre-cooked octopus cool completely before grilling.
• Baste frequently with the butter mixture for added flavor.
• Pull the octopus off the grill when the internal temperature is 15F below the desired doneness.

Variations

1. Spicy Chili Octopus: Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Garlic Herb Octopus: Mix in chopped fresh basil and oregano into the butter mixture.
3. Citrus Infused Octopus: Add orange zest and a splash of white balsamic vinegar for a zesty flavor.
4. Mediterranean Octopus: Serve with kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
5. Butter Soy Glazed Octopus: Mix in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce for an umami-rich flavor.

Conclusion

By grilling octopus on the Arteflame grill, you get crispy charred edges with a juicy, tender inside. The lemon and parsley bring out its fresh flavors, making it a fantastic dish for Italian seafood lovers.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with garlic butter
• Rosemary roasted potatoes
• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Rosé
• Fresh focaccia bread